Description
Author: Ellery Queen, originally published as Barnaby Ross
Publisher: Frederick A. Stokes Company
Place: New York
Year: 1940
Edition: First Stokes edition under the Ellery Queen name; originally published in 1932 as by Barnaby Ross
Format: Hardcover without dust jacket
Condition: Very Good Minus
Description
The Tragedy of X introduces Drury Lane, a retired and profoundly deaf Shakespearean actor who applies his theatrical knowledge, powers of observation, and skill at reading lips to complex criminal investigations.
The novel was originally published in 1932 under the pseudonym Barnaby Ross—another pen name used by Ellery Queen creators Frederic Dannay and Manfred B. Lee. This 1940 Frederick A. Stokes edition reintroduced the novel under the better-known Ellery Queen name and explicitly identifies its Barnaby Ross origins on both the title page and binding.
The first of four Drury Lane mysteries, The Tragedy of X is a classic Golden Age puzzle mystery involving a series of ingeniously constructed murders and an elaborate deductive solution. This early hardcover edition will appeal to collectors of Ellery Queen, Golden Age detective fiction, vintage mysteries, and unusual pseudonymous publishing history.
Condition
Very Good Minus. Original green cloth binding remains firm and attractive, with dark lettering and the large black “X” design on the front board. Moderate fading and discoloration to the spine, with rubbing and wear at the spine ends and board edges. Corners show light wear. Pages are age-toned but appear clean and securely bound. No dust jacket. Protected in a removable archival cover.
Why we love this book
The unusual history behind the Drury Lane mysteries makes this more than a vintage reading copy. Originally issued as the work of Barnaby Ross, the series was later reclaimed under the Ellery Queen name. This 1940 edition captures that transition directly on its title page and binding.